A daily log and other ways to stay organized

Anyone who has survived a big remodel knows how confusing and chaotic it can be. Who's coming today? Is anyone coming today? What will they do? Is this thing spiraling out of control?

Several methods can help you feel less confused. Much of it depends on your contractor, if you have one. Some strategies your contractor might use are a job notebook or a white board, according to Tim Faller, owner of Field Training Services, who teaches contractors how to run their projects better.

I especially like the idea of a job notebook where notes are written about everything that happens on the project. The homeowner can write notes for the crews and the crews can write notes for the homeowners. It can also serve as a record of what went down in case the job ends up in arbitration or court. One consultant I spoke with suggested a spiral notebook, rather than a 3-ring notebook, so the pages are not taken out and remain part of the complete record.

The Daily Log above is one Tim developed for supervisors in the field. If you are acting as your own contractor, you might consider something like this to cut down on the confusion.

1 Comment on A daily log and other ways to stay organized

I have always preached the value of keeping a job journal. Tim’s well organized daily log is perfect to help an owner-builder keep track of job site activities. I would like to suggest including a spot to record materials orders and deliveries. There are usually a few disputes or hard feelings given the sometimes very lengthy lead times and back ordered materials. Schedules are heavily impacted by material shortages or late deliveries.

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